WORK on the final phase of a streetscape scheme in Ferryhill Station will not be completed by the original deadline because of two setbacks.

The environmental improvements programme of roadworks and landscaping in part of the village was expected to be completed by next spring.

The joint initiative between Durham County Council and Sedgefield Borough Council, with help from Groundwork East Durham, aims to improve the area from The Eldon Arms pub, along Chilton Lane to Surtees Terrace.

Most of the project is on schedule to be completed within this financial year but a challenge to the compulsory purchase of Trafalgar and Nelson streets has held back plans to create more open space and planted areas.

Any work on the site cannot be done until after a public inquiry on April 6. Meanwhile, Landscaping on demolition sites near Chapel Row has not started because Japanese knotweed was discovered in the area and must be killed before work goes ahead.

An attractive gateway feature leading to Ferryhill Station is proposed at the "V-Piece" Memorial site with decorative paving, low seating, a grassed area and colourful planting.

Sedgefield council's cabinet agreed yesterday to continue with the work and to contribute £18,400. This is £31,600 less than the council expected to pay as other funds have been accessed.